21655, Preston, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21655, Preston, Maryland is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.03 percent of residents in 21655 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Shore Medical Center At Easton with a distance of 8.84 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Preston, Maryland (ZIP Code 21655)

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, demanding swift and decisive action. For residents of Preston, Maryland (ZIP Code 21655), the ability to efficiently access specialized medical care is paramount. This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score" analysis, examines the critical element of transportation, assessing the ease with which individuals can reach vital healthcare services, including diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. This is especially crucial for those considering moving to Preston, understanding the local healthcare landscape.

The "Lung Cancer Score" considers several facets of transportation: drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. Each plays a role in determining the overall accessibility of healthcare, impacting the prognosis and quality of life for individuals facing this formidable disease.

Preston, a charming community nestled in Caroline County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The rural nature of the area means reliance on personal vehicles is significant. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are US Route 50, Maryland Route 313, and Maryland Route 305. Travel times to major hospitals and cancer centers are a crucial factor.

Driving to the University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Easton, approximately 20 miles away, typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This journey primarily utilizes US Route 50. The drive to the Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, a renowned cancer treatment center, is considerably longer, covering roughly 70 miles and taking between 1 hour 30 minutes and 2 hours, primarily via US Route 50 and I-97.

The time spent in transit directly impacts the patient's experience. Frequent appointments for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up examinations can become a significant burden, both financially and emotionally. Longer commutes can exacerbate fatigue, stress, and anxiety, potentially hindering the patient's ability to adhere to their treatment plan.

Public transportation options in Preston are limited. The Caroline County Transit provides bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, and access to major medical facilities is often indirect. The lack of a comprehensive public transit system presents a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle, particularly those with mobility limitations.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a critical consideration for public transit. While Caroline County Transit vehicles are equipped with accessibility features like ramps and lifts, the limited service frequency and route coverage can still pose obstacles for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Preston area, but their reliability and availability can fluctuate. The cost of ride-sharing can also become a significant financial burden, especially for frequent medical appointments. The availability of these services is often dependent on driver availability, which may be limited in rural areas.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for patients who are unable to drive themselves or rely on public transit. These services provide specialized transportation, often with trained medical personnel, ensuring safe and comfortable transport to and from medical appointments. However, the availability of these services and their associated costs vary.

Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including private ambulance companies and non-emergency medical transportation services. These services cater to a range of needs, from basic transportation to stretcher-bound patients. The cost of these services can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Preston, Maryland, reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services, presents challenges for individuals seeking timely access to healthcare. The drive times to major cancer centers, particularly Johns Hopkins Hospital, can be significant.

The score is not simply a number; it represents the lived experience of individuals battling lung cancer in Preston. It highlights the importance of planning, preparation, and resourcefulness in navigating the healthcare system. For those considering moving to Preston, the transportation landscape is a critical factor to weigh.

The "Lung Cancer Score" also underscores the need for community support and advocacy. Initiatives to improve public transit, increase the availability of ride-sharing services, and expand medical transport options can significantly improve healthcare access for residents. Collaboration between healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations is essential to address the transportation challenges and ensure that individuals facing lung cancer receive the care they need.

The score is a dynamic measure, subject to change as transportation infrastructure and services evolve. Regular updates and assessments are necessary to reflect the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access in Preston. The goal is to empower individuals with the information and resources they need to navigate the healthcare system effectively and focus on their health and well-being.

For residents of Preston, the journey to healthcare is not merely a commute; it is an integral part of their fight against lung cancer. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder of the importance of accessible transportation and the need for a supportive community that prioritizes healthcare access for all.